The Cost of Politics on Inclusive Political Participation and Socio-Economic Development in Nepal

DRCN has been conducting a study on The Cost of Politics on Inclusive Political Participation and Socio-Economic Development in Nepal from October 2024 to March 2025, with the support from the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD). This research examines the financial investments made by individual politicians to contest elections and remain in political office. It explores the key drivers influencing electoral expenses, with a focus on costs incurred throughout election cycle from a candidate’s decision to contest elections, selection and nomination, election and reelection, to holding offices. Additionally, it assesses the financial burden on candidates, its impact on the participation of candidates belonging to marginalized groups, including women, youth and others, and its broader socio-economic implications. This study also explores legal, policy and programmatic measures to regulate the financial burden in political engagements.